The Rise And Fall Of The Roman Empire

You will LOVE our Cancellation Policy

We are indeed tour guides but first we are travelers. We
understand there might be last minute unforeseen
circumstances that might cause a change of plans. When we
sat down to write our cancellation policy we decided to
think to what Cancellation Policy we
would like to have for ourselves for our trips.

Visiting the Colosseum is a breathtaking experience. Discover the 2000 year history in a fun and entertaining way with your local expert guide.

Visit the Colosseum, one of the largest structures of the ancient world, where Romans once gathered to watch the gladiator games, battles with wild beasts, and according to legend, sea battles. Discover how the Colosseum, a massive stone amphitheater which seated an estimated 60,000 spectators, was built in only 8 years. Your guide will unlock fascinating stories of the design and construction, the political benefit, the fighters, and the eventual end of the games at the Colosseum.

At the Imperial Roman Forum, your guide will bring to life the mythology, the popular celebrations of the time, and the gods of ancient Rome, which are reflected in the star signs in contemporary astrology. Learn how the pagan holiday Saturnalia influenced the unfolding of Christmas on the 25th of December today. Listen to the story of the Lapis Niger (Latin for ‘black stone’), the most ancient Latin text ever discovered in the world - which is housed in the foundation of a column in the Forum.

Discover the Temple of the Vestal Virgins - six young women taken from aristocratic families to serve as virgin priests of Vesta. They worked in the temple for a period of 30 years under different emperors and were regarded almost as goddesses in status. Their foremost duty was maintaining the sacred fire of Vesta which represented the heart of Rome. As legend has it - as long as the sacred flame burned, Rome would endure and be victorious.

We include both Colosseum tickets and Roman Forum tickets, all skip the line of course! This Colosseum Private Tour is a must for anyone interested in learning about Ancient Rome in a fun way. Walk where the Roman senate walked, see where the gladiators fought, and stand where the citizens welcomed the Roman soldiers after successful military campaigns.

Palatine Hill

US$40

From the Forum you will take a pleasant stroll to Palatine Hill, where Rome is thought to have originated. Walk among its beautiful hills and gardens and explore the Domus Augustus - Villa of Augustus - the partially excavated palace of Augustus and successive emperors. Your guide will discuss the legendary cave of Palatine Hill where, as myth has it, Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf who nurtured them through infancy.

Pantheon

US$70

The Pantheon, this 2nd century tribute to All Gods and famed engineering marvel, has intrigued for ages - let your personal guide bring you back to the days of the emperors and gods when you visit this one-of-a-kind monument.

St. Peter in Chains - Michelangelo's Moses

US$40

Do not miss one of the most famous statues ever carved by Michelangelo - The Moses. This masterpiece is located in the church of St. Peter's in chains just a few steps away from the Colosseum. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

St.Clemente Undergrounds

US$70** Please note: That admission tickets are not included and will be purchased on site.

Visit one of the most famous churches in Rome, St. Clemente with its mysterious undergrounds. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Famous Piazzas & Fountains

US$70

Don't miss Bernini’s Triton Fountain in Piazza Barberini or Rome’s twin church domes in Piazza del Popolo. You can opt to go up the Pincio hill for one of the best views in the city. Or maybe you want to see the famed Piazza Navona? You will get plenty of ideas of where to eat and shop as you walk through these famous neighborhoods with your expert guide. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Catacombs

US$140** Please note: Admission tickets are not included and will be purchased on site.

The quiet tunnels will come to life as your guide tells you the stories and legends of early Christianity during the days of Roman persecution. The catacombs were the underground burial places of the early Christian and Jewish communities. You will discover the secrets of Christianity's earliest proponents who helped Christianity survive during the persecution from Rome's pagan emperors. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Extra Hour

US$80

Give yourself the freedom to take it easy- add an extra hour to your tour. With a private guide, you set the pace! If you prefer to spend some extra time to learn more, see more, take more photos, or if you have a large group, adding an extra hour ensures a leisurely tour without rushing to fit everything you want to see into the normal 3 hours.

Baths of Caracalla

US$70** Please note: Admission tickets are not included and will be purchased on site.

One of the few places you can see ancient structure’s full height – you’ll be transported to the 3rd century as you walk among this vast bath complex. You'll see where slaves loaded ancient furnaces to heat the water for the different pools of this amazingly intact spa. You'll see mosaics that still decorate the pool floors, and even a game board used by bath visitors to pass the time while they soaked in the warm water. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Circus Maximus

US$40

As you walk around the enormous elliptical Circus Maximus, you will travel back in time to the earliest days of Rome. You will almost hear the spectators as you stand where over 100,000 Romans celebrated the public games. Travel back even further to when the first Etruscan king Romulus once celebrated victory over the Sabines in this famous spot. This is a great addition to a Colosseum/Roman Forum tour! An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Roman Houses on the Celio Hill

US$70** Please note: Admission tickets are not included and will be purchased on site.

This subterranean visit is a perfect extension for those loving off the beaten path visits. The Roman Houses on the Celio Hill is a fascinating time machine to discover the ancient roman lifestyle. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Trajan's Market and Forum

US$40** Please note: Entrance to the site is optional - Admission tickets will be charged separately.

See the world’s first shopping mall in Trajan’s 2nd century “new” Roman Forum. See how history was recorded on the triumphal column, which documents the most important battles as well as marks the original height of the hill that was cleared to make way for the new construction. This marvel of Roman engineering will surprise and delight.

Ancient Secrets: Teatro Marcello and Area Sacra of Largo Argentina

US$70

Reveal the ancient secrets you won’t find at the Forum with this extension! Walk through the Teatro Marcello, conceived by Caesar and built by Augustus, which certainly served as the blue-print for the later and more famous Colosseum. Then visit the Jewish Ghetto and end in the Area Sacra of Largo Argentina where you will learn about Julius Caesar's dramatic final moments. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

Pizza Class

US$265** Please note: Price is up to 4 people. For bigger groups please send us an email.

Accompanied by your private guide, head to a historical trattoria in Rome and meet the chef, who will teach you the main techniques to bake a pizza according to the traditional Italian recipe. Season your own pizza with delicious, fresh ingredients and put it in a wood-fired oven for a perfect cooking. Enjoy the pizza you’ve prepared with your family and friends, accompanied by a soft drink.

3 Hour Golf Cart Sightseeing Tour

US$430** Please note: Price is for transport up to 4 people. For bigger groups please send us an email.

Discover a new way to tour historical Rome. Make yourself comfortable while your private driver and guide accompany you during this 3 hour tour.
Set off and admire the most significant sights of the Eternal City. Listen to your guide, who will be your story-teller during this tour to discover the major fountains and squares of Rome.

Kid-friendly

US$0

Request a Kid-friendly Tour Guide at no extra cost.

Handicraft Workshop - Be an Artist for a Day

US$120** Please note: Experience is intended for up to 6 people. For bigger groups please send us an email.

In the picturesque atmosphere of Via dei Coronari, street of the antiques, you will take part in the workshop of an Italian artist. This activity is fun for the whole family!. You will learn how to make a fresco or a mosaic. Choose a subject, prepare the surface with the plaster, the drawing, and you will use your brush to give life to the images; or make your own mosaic with a natural glue (water and flour) and fasten the marble or the glass pieces (tesserae) on a wooden support, creating your small masterpiece. Take home your creation to make your Roman holidays even more memorable!

Create your own Tour - Make it a Full Day

US$210

Book your tour and create your personal walking experience by making it a full day, adding 3 extra hours! You can tell us in advance your favorite sites to visit or your personal guide will make suggestions based on your interests and energy level - you set the pace and see what you want to see. Please make a note on your booking if you have specific requests so we can ensure that reservations are made when needed. An extra fee will apply if transportation is requested.

DOLCE VITA Upgrade

US$168

Our Dolce Vita service upgrade is all about great service and peace of mind, with your relaxation and comfort at heart. Choose this option and take your tours to the next level of comfort and care giving you access to your own dedicated travel agent, your private guide’s personal assistance, drop off at your accommodation, and a more forgiving cancellation and booking amendment policy.
More details are available at: https://support.eyesofrome.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005953229-Eyes-of-Rome-s-DOLCE-VITA-Service-Upgrade

Smile and Tour

US$0

Request for a funny and entertaining Tour Guide. Your laughs come at no extra cost.

Comments

We toured on the same day that we arrived, and it was great having the tour guide meet us at our hotel- it really took the stress out of getting around Rome, especially since we were more than a little tired when we arrived. We had time to relax, and we were so excited and refreshed when our tour started.

thank you for reaching out. it is indeed possible to add the Colosseum Undergrounds. All our tours can be entirely customised according to your interests or needs. You are very welcome to drop us an email and create your own tour.

When we reserve the access to the Undergrounds we are also able to climb to the Third upper Tier and walk in the Arena. This extends a standard Colosseum Tour of about 30/45 minutes so if you are planning to add it to a Rome in a Day itinerary then I would recommend to have a shorter visit of the Roman Forum to not extend excessively your day.

Also you are correct it is not very easy to find access to the Undergrounds. I advice you to plan your tour well in advance (2-3 months). In any case we do have reservations regularly so we might be able to accomodate also last minute requests.

This is so fascinating! I was reading the other day that there were even female gladiators!! they were called Amazones because of the tribes they came from.. I read that they fought only against each other and occasionally animals but it was very popular up until 200 ad when Settimio prohibited it but it continued anyway cause of its popularity. It was more like modern day wrestling though cause they didnt fight to the death

I really appreciate how honest Eyes of Rome was about this cause when I was originally planning for my abuelita to come visit me from Mexico I was hoping we could visit the Colosseum together since it has been on her bucket list for many years but she unfortunately isn't in the best condition physically to be walking up those steep steps. Many other agencies I felt like could've easily swindled me cause they said no worries there's an elevator for your grandmother to take but when I booked with Eyes of Rome they were honest with me and told me that its not worth relying on the uncertainty of the elevators. When we did the ancient Rome and Colosseum tour we were able to hear all the fascinating stories and appreciate it from the outside and this experience managed to bring tears to my grandma's eyes, a very special moment for us even without going inside.

We're so pleased to hear that you appreciated our honesty and sincerity when organizing the tour for your grandmother. From the pictures you sent us via email, it seemed as if your whole family really enjoyed the Ancient Rome and Colosseum experience! Your guide informed us that you also live in Rome so if you have any further suggestions about ways we can make our tours more accessible, please keep in touch!

We really enjoyed our tour guide Karin. She gave excellent background information about the Colosseum in all its past glory with perfect english and great attention to details. She really made me feel as if I could see it! I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to meet her and have her guide me and my friends around the Colosseum. Grazie Karin! I look forward for your visit to San Diego.

Unforgettable Colosseum!! My husband and I visited Rome this summer and we had had a fantastic experience with Eyes of Rome. We got picked up at our hotel in a private car with a nice and careful driver who drove us to the Colosseum. Elisa, our guide, was waiting for us and soon begun our memorable visit through one of the most iconic symbols of the eternal city. Elisa was outstanding, making the tour interesting and engaging. Her attention to details and her passion in history and art helped us to see the Colosseum and Roman Forum through other eyes. As the Colosseum and Roman Forum are open-air archeological sites, morning visits are recommended. We truly enjoyed the tour with Eyes of Rome, and if you are likely to have Elisa as a story teller she will help to make it unforgettable. Please pass this message along to Elisa!

Francesco has been an amazing guide for our family of three (me, my wife and our kid of seven). He was very knowledgeable and entertaining, bringing fun facts and secret and hidden stories of Gladiators and Emperors. This way he was excellent on delivering a tour that satisfied both us and our boy. After Colosseum and Forum we went to the Gladiator School for our kid, and he had a great fun. By being a 'Gladiator for a day' he learnt more actively what it meant to be an authentic Roman!

We highly recommend Eyes of Rome, nice staff and promptly responsive, who helped us with the organisation and on booking the best tour for us. Thank you again Mara for helping us finalising the organisation of the tours. Definitely a great experience!

My long time friend and I decided to visit the eternal city this summer. My words cannot explain how beautiful this city is and how amazed we were each day we spent there. One of the pick moment of our holiday was certainly the Colosseum and Roman Forum, a once-in-a-lifetime experience and Stefania our guide, made it all fantastic! She has been absolutely awesome, very knowledgeable and friendly. She was patience and arranged a perfect day through ancient Rome for two old ladies like us! Even though my friend and I walked slowly and especially the Roman Forum can be a bit tricky, Stefania chose the best route for us and explained everything even from far. Colosseum lift worked, but we were informed to don’t rely on it before going on tour. Stefania's friendly company has been very appreciated. Stefania you will be always welcome in Lafayette.

My words can't describe enough my happiness! Our time in Rome has been fantastic thank you also to Eyes of Rome! My kids went crazy when they finally saw the Colosseum. Our guide Rosa was amazing on giving us a kid friendly tour, but keeping everyone entertained all the time. See you definitively next time we'll be in Rome :)

I asked my girlfriend to marry me on the upper tier! The view was amazing...she couldn't say no :)

If you're looking for a romantic spot just ask your tour guide... I was with Azzurra, she is simply great! She planned with me the itinerary and suggested me where to stop, she even grabbed a video of the proposal!

Even if you're done with proposals, add the Belvedere extension, it really worths it!

Ciao Kevin!! Thank you for your feedback, it's been a pleasure to plan with you your romantic tour! There are many spots to recommend, but a proposal on the 5th tier of the Colosseum with that view of the City deserves for sure a YES I WILL :)

The Belvedere is amazing! Since it has been reopened in 2017 many tourists who are coming to visit Rome will have the chance to see it for the very first time! The access through the Arena is stunning! You will feel like a real Gladiator!*

*Please note that real Lions and many other wild animals are not included in the tour :P

Grazie Karoline, here at Eyes of Rome we are well trained and, being expert storytellers, we know how to entertain our guests :) Please feel free to contact either me or our Tour Design Team next time you'll come to Rome! I want to show you many other sites! See you soon e...un bacio!

You can either choose to split the tours or to jump on your Golf Cart at the end of your Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour! Please contact us at info@eyesofrome.com and we will arrange your itinerary, according to your needs :)

Ciao Eyes of Rome, how can I amend the starting time of the tour? I was about to book the Ancient Rome and Colosseum Tour but couldn't find a way to suggest the ideal starting time for my family. Is it possible to do that? Grazie

Many thanks for your question! It is actually not possible to modify the starting time of the tour at the moment of your booking. Please feel free to book the regular tour with one of the two suggested starting times, then contact us at info@eyesofrome.com! We will be happy to discuss with you the options available (depending on the tickets availability on the requested tour date)!

You can also use the "special requests" section to communicate us your preferences :)

PAYMENTS
Eyes of Rome® prices are in US Dollars - $. If you prefer to be billed in another currency (including EUR/GBP/CAD/AUS) please get in touch with our office by emailing info@eyesofrome.com.

Eyes of Rome® bookings require full or partial payments in advance depending on the selected services. Payment can be made online through our website, by phone, by invoice or via email. We accept PayPal, Bank Transfers and all major Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). In the event of any remaining balance at the end of your tour, payment can be made cash in Euros (EUR - €) to your guide or charged to your Credit Card in Dollars (USD - $).

You can choose between two payment options at the time of your reservation:

1. PAY A DEPOSIT
A down payment is only available for selected services purchased with Credit Card at least 3 days before the tour date. If you prefer to pay a deposit, then your remaining balance can be paid on the day of your tour. You can decide between a Cash payment (Euros only) or Credit Card payment (US Dollars):

(i) Cash payment. Eyes of Rome® will calculate the remaining amount in Euros as per Google Currency Converter - https://www.google.com/finance/converter. We require a 24-hours’ notice for this option. The amount can be paid directly to your guide/driver at the end of your tour.

(ii) Credit Card payment. The remaining balance will be charged on the same Credit Card provided during your booking in US Dollars on the day of your tour.

2. PAY FULL AMOUNT
If you prefer to pay the entire amount at the time of your booking, you will be charged the amount in US Dollars right away. Tours purchased with less than 72-hours’ notice, or selected tours that require special openings can only be reserved by paying in full.

Eyes of Rome® Standard Policy charges no Cancellation Fee for tours cancelled with more than 72 hours' notice.

We operate a Full Refund Policy of the amount paid during the booking for cancellations made with 72-hours’ minimum notice.

For client No-shows or tours cancelled with less than 72-hours’ notice, we reserve the right to charge the full price of the package.

STANDARD POLICY AMENDMENTS

In order to provide the highest level of service with our top guides and guaranteed tour schedules, amendments or changes require 72-hours’ minimum notice, and are subject to ticket availability for the new date. Eyes of Rome® will make every effort to accommodate your request whenever possible.

2. EYES OF ROME ® DOLCE VITA POLICY
Eyes of Rome® Dolce Vita Policy consists of an upgrade to the Standard policy and is only available upon request.

It can be purchased as an add-on for selected tours. The add-on allows clients to take advantage of more flexible conditions in case of cancellation or last-minute changes.

This Policy does not apply to tours with our All Sales Final Policy.

DOLCE VITA POLICY CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

Eyes of Rome® Dolce Vita Policy charges no Cancellation Fee for tours cancelled with more than 24 hours' notice.

We operate a Full Refund Policy of the amount paid during the booking for cancellations made with 24-hours’ minimum notice, even when it includes prepaid and already bought tickets.

Only in case of client No-shows or tours cancelled with less than 24-hours’ notice, we reserve the right to charge the full price of the package.

DOLCE VITA POLICY AMENDMENTS

In order to provide the highest level of service with our top guides and guaranteed tour schedules, amendments or changes require 24-hours’ minimum notice, and are subject to ticket availability for the new date.

However, Eyes of Rome® will make every effort to accommodate your request whenever possible.

3. EYES OF ROME ® ALL SALES FINAL POLICY
Our All Sales Final Policy applies to a small selection of Eyes of Rome® tours.

It always applies to:
I. All tours for groups over 11 people.
II. All tours that are requested at a different time and date than the ones available online.

Tour Start Time: You can select your favorite starting time. We recommend 09:30AM or 1.30PM in the months between November/March, or 08:30AM or 3:00PM in the months between April/October.

Tickets: Admission tickets for each participant are included in the total price. We will provide your fast line tickets access to the sites, however if you do hold already a reservation please be in touch with us before finalizing your booking and we will adjust your final cost.

Photos: Photos and Video are allowed.

Children Tour for Free: Children aged 17 and under tour free with paying parents. However tickets are required for children aged between 2 and 17. Kids between 0 and 2 do not require a ticket.

Design Your Own Experience: Sites visited are based on the pace of our average client. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can opt to see fewer sites. With a private guide, your tour is catered to your interests and activity level.

Mobility Impaired: Our tours involve a fair amount of walking. Please contact us if you are interested in modifying any of the tours for those who have trouble walking.

Guide Requests: Eyes of Rome will make every effort to schedule the guide you have requested, however, sometimes it is not possible due to schedule conflicts or time off. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Personal Items: Large bags are NOT allowed in the Colosseum.

Tips: Be prepared to climb uneven steps and explore an archeological site - wear good shoes. Anticipate Rome's intense heat in the summer - you may want to bring a small umbrella to block the sun as well as bottles of water.